Who Are The 10 Biggest Action Stars Of All Time?

Action movies are so much fun and truly some of the best times I've had in the theaters. When you're picking a movie like this to go see, they're also the genre I think is most influenced by who stars in them.

For example, many people will ask you if you're going to see the new movie from The Rock or that new Will Smith jawn.

Today, I want to give a shout-out to the actors I think are the biggest action stars of all time and talk about some of their best movies.

Let's dive in.

Arnold Schwarzenegger

This is the G.O.A.T. When you think of action, you think of this man. He's the embodiment of the 1980s and 90s action hero.

Schwarzenegger's colossal physique was matched only by his larger-than-life screen presence. With iconic roles as the Terminator, Conan the Barbarian, and Dutch in Predator, his films were global phenomena that defined an era of explosive action and quotable one-liners.

His transition from bodybuilding champion to the world's biggest movie star remains a testament to his unparalleled charisma and appeal.

​Sylvester Stallone

The ultimate underdog, Stallone not only starred in but also created two of the most enduring action franchises in cinematic history: Rocky and Rambo.

His portrayal of the determined boxer and the haunted Vietnam veteran resonated with audiences on a visceral level.

Stallone's longevity is remarkable, having successfully revived his action career with The Expendables franchise, cementing his status as a true legend of the genre. And he even brought Rocky back briefly in Creed, to help launch a new franchise.

​Bruce Willis

In an era of muscle-bound heroes, Bruce Willis redefined the action star as the relatable "everyman" in the seminal classic Die Hard.

His portrayal of the vulnerable yet resilient John McClane, a cop in the wrong place at the wrong time, brought a new level of wit and humanity to the genre. This everyman appeal, combined with a string of successful action thrillers, made him one of the most bankable stars of his generation.

In an era where everyone was muscular, Willis gave us someone we could identify with and root for who was only a little better than us.

Tom Cruise

Still going and pumping out massive hits and doing his own insane stunts, Cruise is working his way up this list and may on on top.

A force of nature, Tom Cruise's dedication to his craft is legendary. The Mission: Impossible series stands as a monument to his commitment to delivering breathtaking and practical action sequences. For over three decades, Cruise has remained a top-tier box office draw, a testament to his enduring star power and ability to consistently thrill audiences.

Top Gun: Maverick may have actually saved cinema after COVID.

​Jackie Chan

My childhood hero, the guy who made stunts in the movies seem magic. He could beat anyone up and make you laugh in ways unseen since, like... Chaplin or Buster Keaton.

A global icon, Jackie Chan revolutionized action cinema with his unique blend of incredible martial arts, breathtaking stunt work, and slapstick comedy. His willingness to perform dangerous and innovative stunts, often at great personal risk, has set him apart from any other performer.

Chan's influence on the action genre (and the martial arts subgenre) is immeasurable, inspiring a generation of filmmakers and actors with his dynamic and acrobatic style.

​Harrison Ford

Now, with all his prestigious drama and comedy roles, we sometimes forget that the guy started out playing Han Solo AND Indiana Jones.

While a versatile actor, Harrison Ford's iconic roles solidify his place in the action pantheon. He brought a roguish charm and a grounded sense of adventure to his roles, creating some of the most beloved and enduring characters in film history.

Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson

A modern-day box office king, Dwayne Johnson has leveraged his immense charisma and impressive physique to become one of the most successful action stars of the 21st century.

His infectious energy and ability to lead major franchises like Fast & Furious and Jumanji have made him a global superstar with an undeniable connection to audiences.

​Keanu Reeves

Even if he just has Point Break and Speed, he might have made this list, but his modern turn as John Wick and Neo in The Matrix has made him an all-time great.

With a career marked by iconic action roles, Keanu Reeves's dedication to the intricate "gun-fu" choreography and his stoic yet compelling characters have redefined modern action filmmaking and solidified his status as a genre legend.

​Bruce Lee

Despite a tragically short career, Bruce Lee's impact on martial arts and action cinema is immeasurable. His roles in kung fu movies introduced them to the West.

He revolutionized the depiction of martial arts on screen, bringing a level of authenticity, speed, and philosophical depth that had never been seen before. A true cultural icon, his influence continues to be felt in action films to this day, making him a permanent and foundational figure in the genre.

Will Smith

For decades, Smith has been one of Hollywood's most bankable stars, delivering a string of blockbuster hits that have left an indelible mark on popular culture.

His brand of action hero—a perfect fusion of swagger, humor, and bravado—made him a global phenomenon. He punched an alien and welcomed it to Earth in the 90s mega-hit Independence Day, brought effortless cool to the sci-fi action of the Men in Black franchise, and created an enduring partnership in the high-octane Bad Boys films.

His ability to carry a film on his own was proven in the post-apocalyptic thriller I Am Legend, showcasing a depth that complements his blockbuster appeal.

Summing It All Up 

Action movie stars are the kinds of actors you can greenlight a franchise on, and who reliably get butts in seats for the biggest movie releases. They are so much fun to watch, and have contributed to some of my best nights at the movies.

Did I get this list right?

Let me know what you think in the comments.